Re: Merry Christmas From The Steelers

Hall of Fame defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau shares a special family tradition during the holiday season that dates back to the 1960’s.

Every year, players, coaches, and various members of the Steelers organization gather as Lebeau spiritedly reads The Night Before Christmas poem.

“I get chills down my spine and tears come to my eyes,” said assistant head coach/defensive line coach John Mitchell. “I can sit back and envision being a little kid again and hearing it for the first time. It’s like the first time every time I hear it. It’s new and exciting every time I hear it.”

This year, Lebeau shared his family tradition with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh to help raise funds for the less fortunate.

“Children’s is absolutely thrilled to have the support of the Steelers, both with Coach LeBeau’s event and what they do for us throughout the year,” said Chris Gessner, President of Children’s Hospital. “We really try to meet all of the needs of our patients and families, physical, emotional and spiritual and nothing really brightens the day or touches the soul of our patients like a visit from the black and gold.”

Linebackers James Harrison, James Farrior, and Keyaron Fox attended the Children’s Hospital reading along with former Steelers’ cornerback Deshea Townsend. As usual, Lebeau did not disappoint and the crowd rewarded him with a standing ovation.

“It’s all about the cause,” said LeBeau. ”There are a lot of good people who want to help our children be healthier. There couldn’t be a better cause than that.”